Alfred Ocaka

Biography

Alfred Ocaka is a PhD research student at South East Technological University (SETU) Carlow Campus. His research is focused on securing Industrial Automation and Control Systems (IACS) against cyber attacks. Alfred holds a Bachelor (Hons) of Science in Telecommunication Engineering from Makerere University in Kampala, Uganda. Prior to joining SETU in 2021, Alfred had worked in the IT Industry for more than four years. He previously worked with UN World Food Programme, Ensibuuko and netLabs!UG Research Centre in Makerere University.

Research Project Description

The current research project focuses on securing Industrial Automation and Control Systems (IACS) from cyberattacks. IACS is widely used to monitor and control the manufacturing industry, and critical infrastructure such as power grids, oil and gas, water treatment and nuclear power plants.  With the rise of Industry 4.0, cyberattacks on critical infrastructure have become a growing concern in recent years. The research clarifies the unique cyber challenges presented by IACS and develops a toolkit to assist organisations to incorporate their IACS within the wider organisational security posture. The toolkit employs Machine Learning to monitor and detect cyberattacks in industrial networks.

Publications and Outputs

• Ocaka, A., Briain, D.O., Davy, S. and Barrett, K., 2022. Cybersecurity Threats, Vulnerabilities, Mitigation Measures in Industrial Control and Automation Systems: A Technical Review. Multidisciplinary Perspectives on Cybersecurity Research, Practice and Education, p.35.

The paper provided a comprehensive technical review of the cybersecurity threats, vulnerabilities, and mitigation measures in Industrial Control and Automation Systems (ICAS). The paper examined the current landscape of threats and vulnerabilities and discussed the widely adopted cybersecurity framework, standards and guidelines for ICAS.  Lastly, the study scrutinized the existing cybersecurity mitigation measures designed to protect ICAS.